My Experience, Tips, THE REALITY | How to BECOME a Bushcraft Instructor

[@Tom_Bee_]

I'm gonna lay a bet that you're one of the best instructors in your field. Your style of presentation is very clear and no nonsense and you clearly know your stuff. I've learned a lot from this channel and I'm very grateful that you chose to walk this path as it's benefited me immensely. Good work.

[@billyaitken1713]

You're not wrong Tom. Certainly Nick's military background has stood him in good stead, I don't know if he's been an instructor in a recruit training environment or whether it's from making sure the new guys to the unit know how to keep themselves alive. The business management side of things and first aid is something else entirely. When the last Commonwealth games were on in Australia, people would ask why I had arterial forceps on my vest...... I would reply 'because there's only one tourniquet in the police car'😎👍

[@petezahrbock9931]

Very good video Nick. It's Pete from Minnesota. You and your wife are good people. I mean that!!

[@budwilliams6590]

Behind every great man is a greater woman. Thank you Louise.

[@markw.3743]

Good on you Louise ! If I was there I'd give you a high five ! Keep him straight and on track !

[@hunterG60k]

I've worked outdoors in all weathers for the past 25 years and I couldn't do anything else. I always tell people those winter days, when you just want to get indoors and crawl under your duvet, are the price we pay for those fresh spring mornings and gorgeous summer days, when everyone else is stuck in an office. I think I'm one of those humans that doesn't deal with domestication very well, and I suspect you may be the same. Humans evolved to be outdoors, to eat different types of fresh food, to gather round campfires with our tribe; not gathered round screens in our lonely "cages", eating what supermarkets feed us. I really liked what you said about "re-wilding" people, I think it would go a long way towards solving the planets issues if we were all re-wilder at least a little bit. Massive respect for what you do 🙏❤

[@greywindLOSP]

BRAVO SIR, BRAVO!

[@markhyde1970]

I used to be a Greenkeeper (bare with me here) on a golf course. Come winter time as the grass growth slows , it's mainly rebuilding or digging new bunkers , woodland management , fence mending etc. My point is , I know where your coming from regarding working outside ALL year round, whatever! the weather. Now, would I rather be outside than stuck in an office throughout the seasons - 100% yes. So it is worth it. Really admire your drive and clear passion for what you do. Lucky to be living your dream (although it may not feel that way on a wet super windy cold day, when things are not going to plan and it's warm inside).

[@davehumpleby3440]

Your humility and honesty are inspirational. I'm presently wading through a degree module on leadership. Many of the qualities I am learning about that make a good leader are clearly evident in you. You exude so much conviction, passion and motivation that I can't help but be fired up for my next woodland adventure. You have a wonderful gift there. I too have a loving wife that supports a far-from-perfect husband and it's so important to acknowledge that. They're super heroes aren't they. Where would we be without them? Watching this, I get the feeling you are a real force for good. Thank you.

[@johnfroggatt1455]

Quote “I’m only human”. That is what makes your videos so good. You make no bones about the struggles you have, and have had, along with the support that you acknowledge. I watch out of an interest in what you do but really, my take away is how you manage yourself and understand the frailty of being human. That alone has, and is helping, me deal with my struggles. Thank you.

[@baronedipiemonte3990]

Continued success to you !!!

[@h.bsfaithfulservant4136]

Very well done Nick and Louise 👏👏. I sincerely hope you thrive and enjoy the fruits of your labours for decades to come 👍🙂

[@wolfenstein6676]

Seriously? For decades to come? Take a look at the world we living in, (no, I don't mean stare at your 'Orwellian idiot box' in your livingroom and listen to the mainstream media 'news'), 'Agenda 21' legislation has now been implemeted worldwide. This is communism 2.0 for the 21st century. The part we're living right now is called the 'Great Reset'. The United Nation's 'Agenda 21' legislation intends to ban all so-called 'unsustainable' practices including irrigated crops, animal farming, having pets, freedom of movement, private cars, air travel and sea freight. They intend to outlaw the ownership of all private property, as this leads, according to them, to the accumulation of wealth and promotes inequality. Please, do some research, for the sake of your families. This information I've mentioned is easy to find.

[@gordoncody]

I think a Teacher that stops being a student risks becoming no longer relevant, I believe you have it right, keep filling the mind my friend. The mind is a muscle that needs to be exercised too.

[@Rogar0]

Wow Nuff thought that was great Nick & Louise! My Fairy who guides me too! Nuff said! 👍⛺️🛶👣🦉😎

[@webb618]

We only see the tip of the iceberg. I cannot express just how grateful I am that your paths have led y’all here. All I can say is thank you.

[@gaylecoombs5510]

Very nice I gotta say you do some of the best bushcraft videos that I can learn from in my opinion. I love when I see your new video drops on my phone notification makes me happy you teach in a way that makes it very relatable. Maybe if I can ever make it over there I would love to take your class. Good luck with your adventure. I know you will do great things and you deserve way more subscribers than you have.

[@deandunbar8856]

Nick, Louise your real Legends and I thank you for your time and showing us how to overcome and succeed and wellbeing your honesty is amazing and I have learned so much from you doing your KZbin videos THANK YOU TWO... Your child is Blessed to have a Dad like you good on ya... 🙏

[@brucematys6064]

👏👏👏Nick and Louise! I have been following Bushcraft channels for years now and I have to say yours is absolutely one of the best. I live in Canada and we have some great people here teaching the subject but I think it is your style and enthusiasm that shines through. Keep up the good work! Cheers.

[@CarlosWilkie]

Thanks Nick and Louise. Us kiwis here in New Zealand are hardworking and your videos are awesome to watch. Thanks sooo much

[@burtowebb8101]

Thanks just the bush I needed to hear thank you!

[@mikemills3713]

US Navy retiree, living in Japan. Your videos are informative and insightful. I have learned much and hope the very best for you and your family. Keep up the good work, and I will continue watching. Thank you.

[@maryhairy1]

Great watch thx

[@oaknhazel541]

One of my favourite quotes about teaching is as follows..."When one person teaches, two people learn". Thank you for all the information!

[@hildegardkhelfa]

Never saw such a great instructur, honest, humble, humorous, great teacher, refreshing human and smart and experienced, while trying new stuff as well. And great, you have such an awesome, supportive wife. Happy for both of you!

[@carolinegoldsmith9867]

So very well explained You should be on the TV . You are a joy to listen to 😘😘

[@gezdonaghy2456]

I have nothing but the greatest respect & admiration for you Nick. To build your business from nothing to what has become today with no funds is something very special. We can really see the passion and enthusiasm you have and the success you have you deserve, you have earned it!

[@jimmybrooks1059]

Cheer O Nick, crack on. I'm not a Brit I'm American but a Vet is a vet. Thank you for your service, sorry about your wounds and we all have them by way of war or life. Keep on doing what you love. A big applause to your Louise for her hard work. Bless you all. Carry on Marine 👍

[@randomman4488]

Hard work pays off you are an example respect

[@Paul-xe8li]

As a royal marine you have the best BUSHCRAFT EXPERIENCE you need . All the best .

[@Revup1]

Yep, I wouldn't be here without my other half. I've put her through all sorts of crap. We've developed a language for those moments when the darkness comes back, helps a lot. We shouldn't forget that our nearest and dearest go through it too. When you said - "I can't work for a large hierarchical organisation again" - that gave me a giggle. Giving back to the community, serving those who have served, encourages our own growth too. Bless you Nick, I've been genuinely moved by your posts.

[@lawrencemartin1113]

You are clearly such a wonderful team and God bless Louise for her support and expertise! I love your films and the honesty that pervades them. Fantastic work and I wish you far more days of joy and success than those darker times you battle with. Your passion shines.

[@garethphipps5360]

You're a terrific chap Nick, my partner and I are learning so much from your videos; you have a very straightforward and clear approach which makes it that much easier to pick up a skill. Thanks to you and Louise for all your hard work, we wish you many enjoyable, thriving years to come

[@andrewscrivens9586]

Another great video Nick. You both do amazing work and help so many. 👏👏👏👏

[@billhighway5162]

Am I the only one that hits the ‘like’ button before you’ve even watched the video? I just know that the content & quality is going to be 100%. This is the only way I can compliment you, you make me feel like I’m back in the mob & waiting to get a debrief before going on exercise, no other you tuber does that. Well done Royal ⛴⚓️

[@daveedwards6567]

Well done both of you your doing a great job for vets and bush craft big thanks good videos

[@NorthwalesBushcrafters]

Well done guys hard work always pays off 👏

[@ptprepper1170]

Following your channel has been a life changer for me. Its your humanity and honest, humbling approach to things alongside your knowledge and experience that makes all your videos absolutely briliant. I ve worked as a close protection operative and PMC and then switched to pre hospital emergency services (through Red Cross) and having my own mental issues finding this channel made a heck of a difference. So, again, thank you (and your wife). For the inspiration and for all you teach and share.

[@agusmz]

Excellent video! Thanks Nick & Louise! Optimising the excellence with your sincerity, passion and generosity

[@felipecastro5752]

Fantastic vídeo. Very informative and Lot of interest. God bless you.

[@jonathanburton7675]

I'm a U.S. Marine and have been for the past 4 years, sadly I am currently getting kicked out for refusing to get vaccinated. That being said I have been going through a lot of mental struggle of late with having to face going back home, but I have always felt at peace in the woods back at my home in Texas whether that be hunting, fishing, or just hiking. So tonight I decided I wanted to learn a bit more about bushcraft, and out of luck I found this amazing channel. I just wanted to tell you, that you Nick seem like one of the most down to earth people and I hope to meet you someday. It's only been a couple hours since I ran across one of your videos but I haven't stopped, I hope that being out in the wild can bring me as much peace as it has brought you! Thank you so much and God Bless you brother!

[@richardrae5049]

Having spent approx two and a half years doing training and exams in arboriculture, tree surveying powerline surveying, ecology ,endangered species, fungal recognition, first aid in extreme locations and a shit load of law and legislation I think I've done about 30% of your achievements. Good for you both ,long may you keep it up.

[@MiltonGrimshaw]

Not only do you always sound positive you also pass that onto the viewer giving people the courage to take a venture on is a good trait and I always walk away from viewing thinking I can do the things I want to do, they are not as grand as yours but still I think nothing is not worth not trying, sucess at anything is built on trying.

[@survivalbushcraftandselfsu8352]

Nice. As a paramedic who is considering getting out, appreciate your story.

[@markgibbons4938]

Well done to you both you should be so proud of what you have achieved. Your passion and enthusiasm are a joy to watch. TY

[@Raventommm]

I really enjoy your videos. Its relaxing for me to watch this. Its also a kind of mental help for me. So big thanks to you and now i am off to give my wife a big hug en kiss for all the things she does for me! Keep up the great work!

[@harrywright5705]

If I ever got the opportunity to come down to one of your lessons I know I would be fully satisfied that I’m learning and being put on the right path towards the right way to treat and respect the outdoors, great vid again mate always tuned in

[@Tango27800]

As ever Royal , you are doing an amazing job, you deserve all the success you have acheived. You just keep going from strength to strength.

[@The-Yorkshire-Man]

Enormous effort, huge dedication, and gigantic support from Louise. Nick you are a very lucky man. I hope you all go from strength to strength. 10 years in the Infantry and now in my 23rd year of the Met. I'm still learning and complacency is never an option. Much respect bro! C.

[@vikingbushcraft1911]

Brilliant (and sobering!) video on following your passion - thank you Sir and well done 👏 👏 👏

[@stevej7875]

Wow, with a simple honest video I think you have just turned the image, idea, perception etc, etc of being a Bushcraft Instructor on its head by telling it like it is, great stuff as usual Nick. Wishing you all the very best for the future....

[@robsrealm.8267]

Nick, Louise... I can't thank you both enough for what you do, and are continuing to do with the channel. I am in awe of what you do Nick, and would love to get more involved with my local outdoors and with you and your projects however, things are not great at home right now and may be unsettled for some time to come. So from a massive fan please carry on doing what you do, and here is to the next year, and the future. Thanks for everything. Rob.

[@paulkennedy5021]

Well that was a great watch. Kudos to you Nick for pushing on and getting it done. Kudos times 10 to Louise. Our culture tells us to cut and run when marriage isnt a fairy tale anymore. She is obviously a real Hero and one in a million. You both have earned your success. Well done. Long may it continue and all the good work you both do.

[@jimmccoys5778]

I appreciate your humble and candid attitude!! Really appreciate your knowledge and care for your surroundings!! Really hope to see you back soon!! Enjoy your respite!!

[@trishywishy8672]

Love watching and learning from all of your videos. Thank you to everyone at HVB

[@kakarikiIck]

Keep up the fantastic work. Well done to the pair of you, you can see the passion you have for your work which is now a lifestyle.

[@stefanrobinson2920]

Iv always liked bushcraft from my ACF days but being an instructor is a big step..that was a real interesting video again on how to..iv not seen this kind of video done before !..also its just highlighted to me just how much time effort and money you have both put into it..omg wow

[@daopaleo]

You are such a wholesome person 🤗 thank you for sharing your experiences and hacks on starting your own business.

[@outdoor-suedost]

Great video Nick, it shows how much more it needs to be an instructor than a "normal" bushcrafter. There are so much more things to be thought of then only building shelters or making fire for example. You said it right that it is nearly impossible to get all these things done on your own, so you could be very glad to have wife like you have. So Nick and Louise I wish you all the best from 🇦🇹 Take good care of you and yours!!🤠👍

[@clayton8944]

What to say ? , amazed , outstanding and so pleased you have found your space Nick .

[@dougdixonhull]

You're doing an amazing job and should be so proud. Love watching your videos and hopefully I want to come on one of your courses one day. But until then, keep up the good work and enjoy life to the full.

[@appalachianbushcraft6335]

Enjoyed that, thanks!! I really enjoy the look behind the scenes. Keep it up. Cheers

[@BourneOutside]

What an amazing insight to the Bushcraft Instructing way of life - thank you very much for sharing, Mr. & Mrs. G 🙏 I tip my hat to you both. Totally agree with all you said on the business side of things. Being a small business owner myself (not bushcraft related). This is definitely good food for thought and I thank you once again for putting this video out there for us. ATB, Tim

[@JohnHill-v6q]

Behind every man there is a strong woman never apologise for your mental state its what makes you individual iove your videos and hope to meet you some day even volunteer for you

[@RH_Wildcamping]

Well done you guys. All the best for the future👍👍

[@owtnabowt2723]

Thanks Nick/Lousie. I'm hopefully at the start of a similar journey, so this video has given a real insight into the process of getting from where I am, to where I want to be.

[@aynsleycooper365]

Nick, Louise, Finn; another excellent, detailed and personally focused upload full of useful information. Thank you.

[@TheSaneHatter]

Thanks for this frank, sober discussion of a profession that may have been romanticized in recent years. For while I would certainly like to be GOOD enough to teach, I am not at all sure that I would want to DO this job, professionally. Still, we all need to hear this: for if we do get any good, someone is going to ask us to show them how. Under that theme, I'm glad to hear you talk about the need to specialize and to find your "niche" as you learn: that's probably something that deserves its own video, or even several, and yet, I've only heard that point made once before by a professional instructor.

[@omhubbard9313]

Hey Nick and Louise, I love this video, what a journey you have been on, the important bit is the passion for what you do... this is so evident in the way you speak about the woodland and the work that you do with folks rehabilitation. There is a big focus on mental health and the importance that the natural world has to offer in supporting us to achieve a happier healthier mind... I loved the time I spent in the woodland in August this year, it was a pleasure to finally meet you and Louise and lovely Finn. I'll continue to follow your journey and share the videos that are reaching far and wide... well done... your efforts are paying off, even the moments in the deepest of winter... it all counts! I'll happily come and help spread the wood chip too 😁

[@Andy-walkaboutnutty]

Congratulations on getting to where you are now 👍

[@darrendavies5264]

Youre an absolute inspiration. Thankyou for everything you bring to everyone that has anything to do with you,and Thanks to your Mrs too who through your own words keeps you going at times and keeps you heading in the right direction on the not so good days.

[@samuelpouyt8926]

Well done to both of you. That is very impressive. Hello from Switzerland!

[@Stoney_AKA_James]

A huge congratulations to you and your wife on your success! I teach prepardness, security, survival in the U.S. and I know that it takes a lot of work!

[@stephendrummond7885]

Hi Nik I have spent a lot of time in the forest in the past 30 years since I left the Black Watch it's my complete passion love your videos they keep me inspired cheers mate keep em coming.

[@scotty5717]

Watched your videos through all the nonsense of the last year or so, enjoyed them very much and you've even given me the outdoor bug at nearly 60.started buying gear from my local army navy store. Look forward to your next videos this year and next. I hope you business continues to grow, which I'm sure it will, because a lot more people are going to holiday, camp in UK. Wish you and your family a great Christmas and New year. Thank you.

[@thebikepackingadventurer]

That’s a very good insight in to your life, a great watch and really shows how qualified you have to be

[@robcrusoe]

Brilliant Nick, I admire your passion for the great outdoors and you have a natural ability to put all the skills you have into a great business .Love the Woodland Warrior programme, the outdoors has been a place for me for well being and mindfulness for a long time and helped me deal with some of the things I saw/experienced . Thanks for sharing.👍

[@justme2640]

Your commitment and enthusiasm shines through each and every time .You deserve all you have achieved.You’re definitely an inspiration and couple with the knowledge you obviously have in abundance I hope one day to shake your hand .I for one salute you 👍

[@inguzwulf]

Not to denigrate previous videos but what you relay in this one is one of your most important to date. You make salient points that apply to all endeavours, not just bushcraft instructing. These are transferable thought processes that any of us thinking of 'going it alone' should take on board. Put the way you have, the thought of doing your own thing away from just being 'employed' may seem daunting. It's also exhilarating. And liberating. And being in a partnership helps massively (but like you said 'sing off the same hymnsheet' and communicate with each other). I'm starting out down this line after years of working for others (not as a bushcraft instructor, I tip my hat to your dedication on that front) and just taking babysteps often seem like walking on the moon (especially as I have to hold down part time work to fund living costs at the mo) but hey, life's mine to live, and succeed or not, I'm at least going to learn and grow. The most important thing for me is that by working for me I don't feel dirty like I have done whilst working for others. That is a huge weight off my soul (and no amount of money, or whatever money is supposed to bring, can match that feeling). Sorry, I always seem to waffle or 'preach' when responding in comments sections of late, I just can't seem to condense my thoughts like some can. Thank you for opening yourself up to us like you do and for bringing us with you on your journey (yearch! Touchy feely wordy things from an Englishman. I'll go wash my mouth out now). Thanks fella, and take care🙂

[@gypsymark5779]

Hello Louise, What a guy,that was a fantastic,educational and in-depth video on something I've been thinking about myself,having previously introducing some of my friends to wild camping,but I'm 53 now and feel a lot older,i love watching your films when i can't get out myself....so keep up the fight and good work 🌲⛺🔥🤪👍

[@paganoutdoors3193]

Brilliant insight Nick ,truly a family affair, and a truly super other half in Louise, great information, really look forward to your videos, good health and safe travels,cheers craig

[@jonathanhughes8670]

Definitely appreciate all the passion and hard work you two have put into this! This video in particular but also everything its taken to get here. I hope to make it down to take some courses soon. Until then I'll keep enjoying the videos. Keep up the good work, it's doing wonders for me!

[@lisajohnston6422]

Yes, you are helping people across the world. I wish I was in the U.K. to take some of your courses. Thank you for the insight to your beginnings. I share some of your same struggles but have to manage it myself. It's great you have Louise to support you. Godspeed to your future.

[@rohanbruce1]

Thanks for this Nick. Very informative. And I couldn't agree more: our other halves are priceless mainstays. Respect to the both of you. 👍

[@leafcutter5658]

Your a good honest man

[@JoelAaargh]

It's a bit corny, but team work really does make the dream work, and it sounds like Team HVB are a force to be reckoned with 💪🏻

[@kellynisbett5876]

Thanks for sharing your journey Nick. You and your wife sound a great team! Past 12 years I started a new journey in a 12 step recovery program. Getting outside in nature feels so right. Since covid I have another addiction watching Bushcraft 😁. Also learning about plants trees. I am very interested to learn more when the timing is right. God bless 🙏

[@MrCharles0001]

You are an absolute gem. Continue.

[@banksarenotyourfriends]

Great video, cheers Nick (and Louise).

[@EdwinDueck]

All this is great info, for me I'm just going to go camp in the woods. You said winter, living in Canada, it gets( like you British say ) BLOODY COLD. I'm on my way over the hill, most of my life has been waisted wishing I could do this or that, if your in your late teens or early twenties don't let this go by. Before you know it, you will be sixty plus and wonder where the time went. I have had 3 heart attacks and now have 5 stints in my heart, but I don't want to sit back and wait to dye. When that time comes the grim reaper is going to have to find me, lol. Take care my friend and I wish you all the best, PS your doing a fine job.

[@arthurwestcott5437]

Nicely done, Royal. Hopefully I'll get the chance to head down your way eventually. Looks like a quality spot. Best of luck for the future. Keep posting these updates, they're a great watch.

[@michaelpepper7230]

Thank you for the insight of how you have created your business. If you love what you do it's not considered work. ATB from Down Under.

[@vi0205]

Hello Nick, hello Louise, very interesting to hear the whole story behind your company! You can feel that you are living it and that you are happy. Thank you for the many suggestions, yesterday I was finally back in nature for 10 hours and today I feel like new! It's a shame that I live here in Germany, otherwise I would take a course with you straight away! All the best and keep up the good work! Greetings Viola

[@robertbradfield4810]

Well done Nick, Love and respect to the family. Rob at Clandown

[@colleenshaw3481]

I am glad you and your wife found a way live and prosper that is sustainable for your family in more ways than one. The work you are both doing help people immensely and I understand the challenges, but God bless and keep you all going strong. You will probably never know the full reality of who all you help, but one person or thousands it is still important. It gives hope and love and teaches how to find ways to cope. It gives joy, hahaha I am still thinking of all those desserts around a campfire. Thank you both Nick and Louise, good teamwork ;p

[@alanevans4232]

Thanks to you both I, for one and I don't think I'm alone, hadn't realised how much effort and dedication has gone into what you do. This video has been a real eye opener and I am amazed by your efforts with what you have been through, congratulations to you both.

[@trevormegson7583]

Thank you so much for your inspiration in many ways.

[@danqrl]

I'm starting a 2 year bushcraft course next year which will hopefully lead into an apprenticeship of up to 4 years depending on various things and then hopefully be a bushcraft instructor 👍

[@Dingleowl1582]

Glad your making a success out of your passion. You two have worked so hard for it 👍

[@Rockhopper1]

its how I got into the film industry never give up and keep learning, I learnt every job role on set to a competent standard, people normally learn one role, I learnt them all. The -unrelenting pursuit of excellence, in between spinal injuries, limb loss and mental health. I am so proud to see you have done similar but in bushcraft, I just need my own Louise now, if you know of anyone haha. Memory loss is a pig, I miss teaching survival but I am not physically able or have the headspace to do it again. Rather leave it to passionate folk such as yourself its hard to survive and even harder to thrive but you are punching life in the face well done. Best go as my long comments annoy you.

[@fransbester5932]

Thank you, I enjoy you very much, From South Africa!

[@Unsanedoc365]

Awesome work

[@alexchichigin]

Hello from Russia! (Just to illustrate your international reach. :)) I just want to say how much I'm humbled and impressed by your journey, the amount of effort you've put into your work and continue to put in every single day, how much knowledge and skill you've acquired and continue to learn, and the level of your honesty and openness. It takes great courage and great wisdom to share not only your knowledge but also your "behind the scenes" both technical and personal with such openness, honesty and vulnerability. (I repeat myself, sorry, but I don't know other word to express my feelings...) And hats off and deepest of my respect to Louise! I can't even imagine... You both are so brave and so strong! Please keep it up and be happy. :)